Commission hears opposition and tables hunting-camp conditional use for 468 Manta Rd

Chairman Charles Coffey opened a public hearing March 3 on a conditional-use permit application to establish a hunting camp on a 534.70-acre A1-zoned parcel at 468 Manta Rd. Applicant Jose Perez told the commission he has used the site for 14 years and "was not aware they needed a [CUP] and now that he knows, he is getting one," and said he complied with a request to remove hunting stands from nearby property.

A nearby landowner, Al Robertson of 325 Powell Rd, Buena Vista, testified in opposition, saying campers had "trespassed on his property" and that he was unsure "if they know where they are even shooting at." Robertson said the presence of a hunting camp could jeopardize his ability to develop and sell his 20-acre parcel. Commissioner Jason Frost asked why a hunting camp is being regulated through a conditional use permit; the county attorney explained the current ordinance treats the hunting camp as a "use" comparable to a short-term rental, and County Manager Thomas Weaver said staff will consider whether permitting rules should change.

Commissioners and staff reported that code enforcement had contacted the site, worked with a timber company, and that Perez cooperated to clean up debris and an area of sewage. Commissioners listed conditions they want Planning & Zoning to consider if a permit proceeds, including a waste/sewage-disposal plan, limits on visibility from the road, noise controls (Perez had reportedly switched to quieter generators), and a prohibition on permanent structures. Planning & Zoning had postponed action until April; the commission unanimously voted to table the CUP until Planning & Zoning issues a recommendation and required health/noise approvals are confirmed.

The decision leaves the application pending rather than approved or denied; if Planning & Zoning forwards a recommendation the commission will take the item up again at a future meeting.